LORI FAUNCE WROTE:
> I am really interested in hearing comments on giving
> away free information. More specifically, if someone
> owns a consulting business, does informative web site
> content and e-mail newsletters that give tips, links,
> and editorials hurt or help a consulting business? Is
> there a limit on how much free information should be
> given? Any comments will be really appreciated.
I would say go ahead and do it.
When we first started our site it was actually exactly
what you are talking about, a place for people to get
free information about their specific business
problems. The project was extremely successful and we
did not have any cannibalization of our revenues from
this project. In fact, it helped generate and qualify
leads since people who did not want to truly 'pay' for
real services were content with the marginal advice we
gave. The project was so successful in fact, that we
expanded it to other consulting businesses and allowed
them to set up legal, HR and other 'help centers' for
their businesses. We have since then begun the process
to transition the site into a full portal for business
professionals. (In a fit of irony, this section of the
site that was the catalyst in developing the site has
been scheduled to be the last section developed in the
new rollout).
We are still working with a number of consulting
business partners to fully develop a one-stop advice
center for business professionals and expect future
success as well. In all, I would say that giving away
free information has only helped our business and can
only help yours.
Josh Troesh mailto:josht_at_imswest.com
IMS-West
http://www.imswest.com
Everything you need to make efficient, profitable use of the web.
Received on Tue Dec 07 1999 - 14:19:10 CST
